3 different rigs

aggieactuary · #1 04-01-2010, 08:31 AM

I'm looking at 3 different rigs, and I thought I'd try to get some input from you guys.

I play a MIM Fender J-Bass.

I'm looking for a rig for jamming with my buddies and possibly some shows in the future. It's going to be a drummer, a guitarist, me, and maybe a vocalist and second guitar or keyboard. We will be playing a wide range of styles.

Here are 3 rigs I'm considering at various price points:

(1) Ashdown Mag 300 Evo II; used for $220

(2) Ampeg BA300-115; used for $425

(3) Ampeg B-2RE head & Ampeg SVT-15E cab; used for $585

So, I know the more I spend here the better it'll be. But I'm just not sure if (3) is worth the extra cash and if I need it when it may just be for jamming in a basement or storage shed. And is the SVT-15E cab a good match for the B-2RE head?

Also, if (1) is a pretty good combo, then I might get the best bang for my buck there, right?

PSPookie · #2 04-01-2010, 08:34 AM

What is the speaker configuration in the Mag combo? That is probably your best bet. The two Ampegs you listed have never done anything for me.

Another good option would be a used GK Backline 600 head and an Avatar cab. It's an inexpensive little rig that can last you a long time.

tomas_almeida · #3 04-01-2010, 08:36 AM

In that price range I think you're going better off with the Ashdown stuff, although the "not MAG" line is pretty much better.

aggieactuary · #4 04-01-2010, 08:38 AM

I think the Ashdown is the C115-300.

PSPookie · #5 04-01-2010, 08:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aggieactuary

I think the Ashdown is the C115-300.

If it's in good working order, then that sounds like a pretty good deal. You can always pair it with an 8 ohm 2x10 and get more power/volume out of it.

Interesting user name, BTW. Could you take a moment to expound upon the nature of risk and insurance?

NickRich · #6 04-01-2010, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aggieactuary

(1) Ashdown Mag 300 Evo II; used for $220

I had the MAG 300H (head only) and it was a good amp. Plenty of clean power, and you can eventually add an external 15" cabinet for less than 300$ new :
http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend....net?sku=605030

A 2x15 configuration is quite a rig.

aggieactuary · #7 04-01-2010, 08:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PSPookie

If it's in good working order, then that sounds like a pretty good deal. You can always pair it with an 8 ohm 2x10 and get more power/volume out of it.

Interesting user name, BTW. Could you take a moment to expound upon the nature of risk and insurance?

Yes, I could expound on the nature of risk and insurance, but it'll cost you.

Thanks for the advice.

aggieactuary · #8 04-01-2010, 09:00 AM

The only info I have on the Ashdown is that it's an "Ashdown Mag 300", and it says 1x12 and 300 watts.

The Ashdown website only shows a 1x15 and 2x10. Did they make a 1x12 in the past or is the store listing it incorrectly?

The photo looks like it could be the 1x15.

Bongolation · #9 04-01-2010, 09:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aggieactuary

is the SVT-15E cab a good match for the B-2RE head?

No.

The cab is an 8-Ohm, and the B-2R/B-2RE amps are known for not producing a lot of perceived output relative to their ratings. Running into an 8-Ohm load is going to reduce that a lot further, to a nominal 250W, and on top of that, the cab is only rated for 200W.

I have no experience with the other amps you mention.

ajunea3 · #10 04-01-2010, 09:35 AM

I'd stay away from the BA300... I've heard nothing but bad reviews about that one.

tdub0199 · #11 04-01-2010, 09:43 AM

I have a Ashdown MAG300 and the MAG 4/10 & the MAG 1/15 and it sounds great... so I personally would go with the Ashdown although I have never saw a MAG300 combo w/ a single 12"....

Baird6869 · #12 04-01-2010, 10:07 AM

Not to bash Ampeg, but the B2-RE was the worst head I have ever owned. It is heavy not very loud. Also, there have been numerous issues with quality (mine worked fine).

I am an Ampeg guy, but this one isn't good IMO.

The inexpensive Ashdown stuff seems to be pretty good.

kai_ski · #13 04-01-2010, 10:32 AM

In my experience, the 115 combos usually have a very low volume to weight ratio (low volume, heavy weight.) My first combos were an Ampeg 115 and an SWR Workingman's 15, I hated them both, and they weren't that cheap.

If the ashdown is the one with 210, then it might be a good option. If I could go back an do it again, I would go straight to something like this: http://tinyurl.com/y8p52q4

I know the GK backline stuff doesn't have the 'vintage vibe' of the ampeg and ashdown, but it's got a lot of features that would be good for a first combo. It's relatively small and portable, it has a tilt back shape, which is good for monitoring yourself in a garage band situation, and the 2 tens will cut much better than a single 15.

aggieactuary · #14 04-01-2010, 11:48 AM

So, it seems like a consensus that the Ashdown C115-300 for $220 will be a good deal.

Also, I'm interested in the Gallien-Kruger Backline 210 or the Gallien-Kruger Backline 600 and an Avatar cab.

I can get the GK Backline 210 for $450 or the GK Backline 600 plus an Avatar B210 Neo for maybe $500.

Should I stick with the Ashdown combo at $220 or step up to the GK combo or GK head and Avatar cab?

An additional side question, Avatar offers their cabs in 4ohm or 8ohm. As long as your amp handles it properly the 4ohm will be louder, right? Is there an advantage to the 8ohm?

kai_ski · #15 04-01-2010, 12:05 PM

4 ohm avatar cab with the backline 600 would be a good mini rig.

the only decision you have to make is if you think you will want to add another cab in the future with that amp... two 4 ohm cabs = 2 ohm, and i'm not sure if the backline is capable of that or not.

aggieactuary · #16 04-02-2010, 11:50 AM

Does anyone have thought on the Carvin BR615N? I can pick up a new one for $450.

Would I be better off with a combo like the Gallien-Kruger Backline 210 at that price?

julo · #17 04-02-2010, 11:56 AM

I have the MAG 300 head + a cheap Crate 1*15.

I love it. (I have the mag 410 but don't like 10s).
I don't use EQ or anything, just straight and it's the sound I like.

Powerful enough for band setting.
Vintagey sound.

Julo

aggieactuary · #18 04-02-2010, 12:16 PM

Any thoughts between:

-Carvin BR515N
-Carvin BR615N
-Gallien-Kruger Backline 210

?

aggieactuary · #19 04-05-2010, 03:09 PM

I just got an offer of an Eden DC210XLT "Metro" for $400. It seems like a great deal.

My only question is how will I get this up the stairs at my place? Will I have to get a dolly?

Just about the only negative I've read about this combo is how heavy it is.

JimmyM · #20 04-05-2010, 03:14 PM

well maybe if you have chronic back problems it could possibly be an issue, but it's not THAT bad. people used to lift amps twice that size happily. they still do.